|
IF YOU want to venture further into the enchanting countryside then here's a tour that will leave you with senses soothed.
We start by heading south of Dublin, en route to a base at the Royal Hotel at the coastal town of Bray. To save time check in later.
First take the ring road 15 miles or so south to the mystically named Druids Glen, the venue for the Irish Open when barely a year old.
The Tour pros sang its praises upon first sight and compared it with Augusta National. Yes, it's that good, in beauty and challenge, with a clubhouse to match. It's not cheap but it shouldn't be missed.
Once bedded down at Bray go next to nearby Woodbrook, a famous old seaside parkland that's just re-opened following major renovation. Formerly one of Ireland's principal courses, it is once again challenging for the major professional events it once staged.
Not far away, at Brittas Bay, is a monument to one man's improbable dream, of owning a links.
Pat Ruddy has the advantage of being a first class architect and his creation, the European Club, was ranked sixth in Ireland within a year of opening. It improves with maturity and is remarkable value.
And how many courses have you played which have 19 holes? Don't ask! A must on any tour.
Brittas Bay is 30 minutes down the coast from Bray and the Vale of Avoca, our next call, is some 15 minutes further on. Here is Woodenbridge golf club and if you find a prettier course in all of Ireland we'll thank you for letting us know.
It was a nine holer when I first saw it and such was its impact that four of us went around five times without once calling into the bar! They struck a medal in our honour.
Four miles west of Arklow, it lies in a wooded valley with tree clad mountains forming a glorious backdrop and a tumbling river the major hazard (it once swept the little wooden clubhouse away in a storm). Now it has 18 holes and the consensus is that it's better than ever. Well worth the detour.
So too, on two counts, is Rathsallagh, your final stop. The one hour drive from Bray will take you through the Wicklow Mountains, perhaps the scenic highlight of your tour, and the delights don't end on arrival.
The Rathsallagh course, designed by Peter McEvoy and Christy O'Connor Jr., is laid out in a wooded estate of 500 acres with a country house as its centre point.
The latter dates to 1798 and is now a de luxe hotel with every amenity. The course is new but you'd never guess and if the greens aren't the finest you've seen they'll come close.
Have an evening round upon arrival, enjoy the many pleasures of the hotel and with another round before you depart for the airport or ferry in the morning you'll have known a glorious finale to your week.
Page [1], [2] - [previous page]
|
